Tag: batteries|forklifts|materials handling

Many companies are currently suffering from rising energy costs and are looking for additional cost reductions. Enormous savings potential can be generated by intelligent charging solutions for electrically operated industrial truck systems. Complementary energy analysation and optimisation consultancy can help fleet operators to save additional money on electricity consumption.

Reducing electricity costs is now highly ranked on the industry’s to-do list when it comes to ecological and economic issues. That is why energy-efficient solutions are required – this also applies to electrically operated forklift systems. Significant savings potential opens up if users take a holistic view in optimising the overall operating system of industrial truck, battery and charger.

Reduction of energy consumption

Energy-efficient charging technologies from Fronius Perfect Charging help to save energy: Selectiva 4.0 chargers are particularly gentle and effective during charging due to their high overall efficiency. The patented Ri charging process ensures that each process is individually adapted to the age, temperature and state of charge of the battery. Overcharging can be avoided, only the energy that is actually required is supplied. Compared to conventional charging technology, the energy consumption can be reduced up to 30 percent. The service life of the battery can be extended up to 10 to 15%.

Fleet operators can also save electricity and costs by using the calendar function integrated in the Selectiva 4.0 battery chargers. If the user starts the process in individual charging stations or rooms at intervals of 15 minutes, for example, there is no increased cumulative power requirement at the beginning of charging. Peaks in the network load can thus be avoided. Fluctuating electricity tariffs, which in many cases depend on the time or day, can also be effectively managed with the calendar function. If the user sets the start of charging at a defined time or on weekend days, they can take advantage of lower rates.

Identify additional savings potential

Using the software tool I-SPoT Calculator Smart, fleet operators can calculate the total operating costs (costs over lifetime) and determine how power consumption can be minimised with the help of the optimal charging technology – individually for different company locations and individual departments. The user thus finds out exactly the starting point and sequence for the optimisation measures as well as how high the savings are compared to 50Hz or HF technology.

The Fronius Perfect Charging experts are available for a more detailed analysis and energy consulting, evaluating further options for energy savings. To do this, the experts analyse the conditions regardless of manufacturer and technology – always with the aim of reducing costs and increasing availability and performance. Based on the identified potential, the Fronius specialists support the user regarding the charging process, battery technology and networking solutions. Fronius Perfect Charging follows a holistic approach and supports customers from analysis and advice to conception and planning to implementation and ongoing support.

In highly intensive operations, handling equipment and its traction batteries are often pushed to the limit during daily use. To tackle this, industrial battery specialist Hoppecke has launched a new range, purpose-designed for heavy-duty applications.

Featuring a unique ‘Connect Four’ structure, the trak | uplift quadro offers four essential advantages: running times are longer, as the technology delivers up to 75% more usable capacity compared to a classic PzS cell under load; meanwhile, a fast-charging capability ensures better battery availability; opportunity charging is possible without intensive equalisation charging; and a Protective Shell Separator prevents short circuits due to mossing.

The trak | uplift quadro’s higher efficiency translates into energy savings of up to 8%. There are fewer cable temperature issues too, as the battery runs cooler for longer, effectively extending its service life.

A new design incorporates an optimised pole and electrode concept. A reduced cell height, special copper inserts, four poles instead of two and optimised connection of the electrodes all add up to enhanced conductivity. The trak |uplift quadro also has a significantly reduced internal resistance compared to the standard lead-acid battery. Consequently, the voltage level during discharge is stabilised, resulting in excellent high-current capability.

Hoppecke’s UK General Manager, Stuart Browne, said: “We’re really excited about the new trak | uplift quadro, which is purpose-designed to cope with high-tonnage trucks and intensive operations where equipment typically runs all day.

“Thanks to extended running times, high efficiency and a long lifecycle, the range is inherently flexible, making it ideally suited to demanding applications such as construction, engineering and agriculture.”

Compatible with standard PzS chargers, the trak | uplift quadro is available in three variants.

The standard 48-120v lead-acid battery comes with an electrolyte level indicator. Another battery incorporates electrolyte circulation to eliminate acid stratification. The system switches on automatically and is practically maintenance-free. Finally, the trak | uplift quadro iQ comprises a high-current battery with smart charging and intelligent control. It offers increased flexibility, as charging times are improved by up to three hours. This variant also enjoys the lowest maintenance costs, and energy consumption is reduced by up to 19%.

The new trak | uplift quadro range is available from Hoppecke and all reputable MHE suppliers.

Lithion Recycling and UgoWork have signed a collaboration agreement for the recycling of lithium-ion batteries developed by UgoWork for the material handling market.

The agreement includes recycling tests of several generations of batteries produced by UgoWork at Lithion’s demonstration plant. In addition, a commercial collection, transportation and recovery process will also be developed between the two organisations to promote the sustainable and efficient recycling of lithium-ion batteries. The agreement initially covers North America.

“This collaboration with UgoWork is a great example of Quebec synergies through the lithium-ion battery industry and is fully aligned with our desire to grow this sector in Quebec,” said Benoit Couture, president of Lithion. “It is important to promote local recycling and to offer a competitive advantage to companies like UgoWork in the face of sustainable development objectives and end-of-life management requirements for lithium batteries,” he added.

“Recycling battery components that reached their end-of-life is perfectly aligned with our sustainable product development approach,” said Philippe Beauchamp, co-founder and CEO of UgoWork. “Joining forces with Lithion which has strong partnerships with companies such as Hyundai Canada, reflects our commitment to our customers and will help support our continued growth in North America.”